We know that this year the holidays will look very different from years past. This long time apart from friends and family is already taking a toll on our spirits, and the holiday season is not bringing its usual glad tidings for many. Our dear friend Sarah Glenner, who has been a part of the Jubilee family since 2011, bravely shared with The Insider that while she knows she’s strong enough to get through this time, she’s also feeling lonely and very much missing being with her friends, her family and her boyfriend. Holidays can also be hard as Sarah’s missing her mom who passed away. So many of us share those feelings, but may have trouble expressing them. Thank you Sarah for being an inspiration to others. Jubilee is here for you, and for everyone in our community who needs an extra hand these days. Please, pick up the phone and call your friends. Use this time to connect creatively in new ways. Love is not canceled. Friendship is not canceled. Caring is not canceled.
If you or a loved one needs more help, please consider taking advantage of mental health resources.We have collected a few that may be helpful during this time.
Independence Now – Cares Calls during COVID (details in graphic). They are also hosting a meeting to learn coping strategies to manage thoughts and emotions during the pandemic on Monday, December 21 from 12 – 1 PM. Zoom link accessible through their online calendar.
Maryland Department of Health – Multiple free webinars, including: Coping with the Ambiguous Losses and Stress of the Pandemic. Alexander Chan, PhD, LMFT. Moderator: Hinda Dubin, MD. December 3, 5pm to 6pm: Register for this webinar.
NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness) is a resource for general information, crisis lines, and virtual support groups. Their Montgomery County page can be found here.
Headspace is a meditation and mindfulness application. They have some free resources here.
Open Path Psychotherapy Collective They offer multiple online courses for topics like anxiety/stress reduction, nutrition and exercise, self-esteem, etc. There is a $4.99 registration fee for lifetime access the courses.
